UK and Israel Reach Uneasy Compromise to Keep East Jerusalem Consulate Open

In a diplomatic standoff over the UK’s planned sanctions on illegal West Bank settlements, the UK and Israel have agreed to a compromise that keeps the British consulate in East Jerusalem operational, though most diplomats will leave. Twenty British diplomats, including the consul general, will depart, leaving a core team of seven to maintain the building and keep the Union Jack flying. UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband said the diplomats are “temporarily withdrawn” for safety but the mission remains independent and will continue working with the Palestinian people. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar confirmed the consulate’s operations would close today and the British flag would remain. The deal averts a potential spiral of reciprocal expulsions and preserves a foothold for the UK in the occupied territory while the UK holds firm on its sanctions package.